A SCAM in which a man was persuaded to withdraw more than £3,000 by a fraudster has led West Mercia Police to issue a warning to residents to remain extra vigilant of courier fraud.
The incident saw the victim withdraw £3,300 after they received a scam call from someone claiming to be from Paddington Police station who informed them a courier would attend their address to collect the money.
Following the incident West Mercia Police have warned against courier fraud which can involve cold calls from people claiming to be from authorities such as police or credit card companies.
The calls from fraudsters often target elderly or vulnerable people however police have urged everyone to remain vigilant as anyone can be a victim of fraud.
Detective Sergeant Jon Cooper said: “No police officer from any force or department and organisations will ever ask you to make a payment, withdraw or transfer money or ask for your bank details.
“Even if someone provides all your details correctly on the phone, it can still be a scam. If in doubt, don’t be afraid to hang up and call whatever company they say they are and directly check if it is legitimate.
“I urge the public to get in touch with friends and family to warn them of the risk and to know what to do. These scams can be extremely convincing and manipulative.
Anyone who believes they are being targeted by scammers should contact Action Fraud via email: www.actionfraud.police.uk or phone: 0300 123 2040.
Always ring 999 in an emergency.
